Houghton Homestead gets $85,500 from State Government heritage grant

THE 18th century homestead of a colonial surgeon is among 22 heritage places to secure funding under the State Government’s heritage grants program.

Dr John Ferguson and his son Charles built Houghton Homestead in Middle Swan in 1864 and went on to become pioneers of the grape-growing and wine-making industries.

The timber-framed jarrah weatherboard house and stables are linked to Houghton Winery and currently used for sales administration.

Under the grants program, the business will benefit from an $85,500 grant towards maintaining the heritage-listed building.

The grants program is one of few funding options to assist private owners with the costs associated with maintaining heritage places.

The heritage-listed Wesley Chapel and Manse will receive $22,210 to help conserve a place of worship that has served the Methodist and Uniting Church communities of Guildford since construction.

The Manse is reported to be a fine example of Victorian Georgian domestic architecture.

Heritage Minister David Templeman said the grants program ensured the long-term viability of the State’s cultural heritage.

“In total, this year’s heritage grants program will provide funding of $1.22 million which, when combined with owner contributions, will generate more than $3 million in conservation works around the State,” he said.